SP-Star Ayara vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Speed Silver, both of which are linear switches. The Ayara stands out for its medium heftiness, making it ideal for those seeking a substantial typing experience. Typing on the Ayara provides a soft bottom-out feel accompanied by a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is renowned for its fast and precise typing experience. These switches offer a light-medium level of resistance and boast a pristine sound profile. With their reduced travel distance, the Speed Silver switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. Although both switches have their merits, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine which switch is best suited for your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Speed Silver, specifically their top housings, greatly differ in terms of sound profiles. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Speed Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the polycarbonate's translucency is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Ayara and the Speed Silver employ nylon. This common choice in housing material results in a similar deep and fuller sound profile for both switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, ultimately creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a comparable experience.
Considering the impact of different housing materials on the overall sound, it becomes apparent that pressing down a key will mainly make you feel the qualities of the bottom housing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the contrary, the top housing is more influential in shaping the sound produced when you release a key. Thus, while the Ayara and the Speed Silver have different top housing materials, this disparity primarily affects the sound when letting go of a key rather than the initial press.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, lighter switches like the Speed Silver with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams are preferred by individuals who value extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for a smoother and more effortless keystroke, reducing fatigue over time. On the other hand, the Ayara switch, with an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 62 grams, offers a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience. This can appeal to users who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Despite the differences, both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range, providing a balance between responsiveness and resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Ayara has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Ayara's travel distance of 4 mm is more traditional, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Speed Silver's shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm is favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and whether one prefers a deeper, more substantial feel or a shorter, more responsive experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Ayara and Speed Silver switches both have a neutral sound profile, meaning they produce a moderate sound when pressed. This makes them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, the Ayara switches also have a high-pitched option available if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual results may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Ayara switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is likely due to the materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduces friction and provides smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switches are described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Their qualities fall in a safe, middle-ground zone that should be approachable to most users. Additionally, like the Ayara switches, the Speed Silver switches also have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Ayara switches are best suited for those who prefer a hearty typing experience, with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switches are perfect for those who value a fast and precise typing experience, thanks to their reduced travel distance for quick and effortless actuation. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, but the Ayara switches also offer a high-pitched option for those who prefer a sharper sound. In terms of feel, the Ayara switches are polished for a sleek typing experience, while the Speed Silver switches offer a more mild and approachable feel. Depending on your preferences and typing style, either switch can provide satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a medium heftness, we recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switch. These switches provide a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. They are suitable for both beginners and advanced users and can be used at home or work. The Ayara switches also have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the perfect choice for you. With a reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. They have a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. The Speed Silver switches are suitable for most intents and purposes and provide a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch depends on your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a hearty and clacky feel with a medium heftness, go for the Ayara switches. If you prioritize speed and precision with a light-medium level of resistance, the Speed Silver switches are the way to go. Both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience, thanks to their polished finish. Consider your personal preferences and typing style when making your choice.
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